As Islamophobia Ramps Up in US Midterms, Texas Muslims Eye Local Stakes

As voters approached the November 3 midterm elections, Muslims in Texas described a climate of Islamophobia shaped over years by state politicians’ rhetoric and policies. Houston lawyer Samir Nadjam said he feels the impact most through his children, who encounter hurtful remarks at school. Muslims make up less than 2 percent of Texas’s population, but organizers hope increased turnout will strengthen their political influence. Emran Gazi, president of the Islamic Society of Greater Houston, said Muslims are pushed out and discriminated against.